When it comes to workout gear, the rule you want to follow is "quality over quantity." You don’t have to break the bank on a closet full of new stuff, but you won’t regret investing in a few well-made basics. They’ll ensure that you’re more comfortable, no matter how far or fast you go.

If you’re wondering exactly what to wear in different weather conditions, check out our What to Wear tool.

Technical shirts and shorts: Avoid cotton apparel. Instead choose socks, shirts, pants, and shorts made of "technical" materials, which pull sweat and moisture away from your skin. They’re lightweight, and they prevent irritating and painful chafing that nontechnical fabrics may cause. In the summer, they help you stay cooler. In the winter, you’ll be warmer. Look for materials like nylon, wool, Lycra, and Coolmax. (Merino wool can be a wise choice, as well.) See some reviews of winter running tights to make the best choice.

Hat: For the summer, get a cap or visor that will keep the sun out of your eyes. For the winter, get a warm hat that can cover your ears.

Underwear: Again, stay away from cotton; it absorbs sweat, which can trap cold and lead to chafing. If you’re wearing shorts, it’s okay to rely on the liner and go underwear-free—it’s a matter of personal preference. If your shorts or pants don’t have a liner, wool or synthetic underwear will offer the insulation and support you need. Get the best undies by reading a review.

Jog bra: Every female runner needs the right jog bra—one that fits well, offers adequate support, and wicks away sweat. Try on a variety of brands and styles to find the perfect bra for you. Check out these tips to make sure you get a bra that offers the best fit.

Reflective gear: If you run before sunrise or after sunset, it’s critical to wear gear that ensures that you can see and be seen. Your best bet is a handheld light or a headlamp. Drivers will see the light, but they’ll also sense the movement and figure out that you’re a runner. At the very least, wear a reflective vest or a blinking red light with a bright LED.

A watch: At first all you’ll need to know is how long you’ve been running. Any watch will do. As you progress, you might invest in a heart-rate monitor or a GPS watch, which can tell you how fast and how far you’re going, as well as your pace and heart rate.

There are dozens of gadgets out there, from the simple to the elaborate.

Some runners swear by these devices; others do fine without them. There certainly are some benefits: These devices provide feedback on how hard you’re working, which can help you keep from working out too hard (which can lead to injury) or too easy (which can keep you from boosting your fitness). Check out the latest models.